1. Elements of Civilization
Celebrating the Olmec

2. What elements of Olmec civilization do you see in this picture?
The Awesome OLMEC
NEWS
Date 1200 BC- 800 BC
What elements of Olmec civilization do you see in this picture?
Where in the World?
The Magnificent Maya
The Olmec civilization is mysterious. What we know about their culture is based on conclusions we draw from uncovered pieces of art.
Education:
We know that the Olmec were very smart. They built the first pyramids from heavy rock. Olmec people also studied math and science. They created a calendar based on the stars, similar to the calendars we use today. Archaeologists believe the Olmec had a writing system; however, no real written artifacts have been uncovered. They believe they used symbols and pictures, called hieroglyphics. One of their greatest inventions was a drainage system that they used to carry fresh drinking water to all parts of the city.

3. Recreation:
Life for the Olmec was not all about hunting and gathering. In fact, they were so organized that they had time for fun and games. Ball courts were found in the center of their large cities. On these courts people played an ancient game with a rubber ball similar to basketball. The word Olmec actually means “rubber ball.” These games were played for fun or used during a religious ceremony.
Drawing showing the “rain god”
Religion:
The Olmec believed in earth gods. Some of these included the fire god, rain god, and corn god. A Shaman, or priest, would lead religious ceremonies. Sometimes people were killed and offered as human sacrifices to honor the gods. They also believed that in order to enter the afterlife a person had to take the form of an animal. The jaguar was an animal spirit that the Olmec thought highly of because it represented strength. Pottery found from the ruins of the Olmec civilization have drawings connected to their religious beliefs.

4. Government
Little is known about the Olmec government. Archaeologists believe there was one powerful ruler who made all the laws and decisions. Under the ruler were the shaman and common people that would do all the work.
Near the civilization ruins, large stone heads were discovered. These “colossal heads” are thought to show the faces of rulers of the Olmec civilization. The heads are made of stone, jade, and volcanic rock. Some of these stone monuments were broken in pieces. People believe that when a ruler died the Olmec often broke their statue apart. Then, they used the stone from the old statue to create a new statue that would honor the new ruler.
Tree of Life: Shows the seven branches of the Olmec people, which perhaps connects to the organization of their government.
Colossal Head